2016-10-22 02:07:53
Most physical evidence of American pioneers’ westward treks has long since been erased. And in an age of text messaging and ordering pizza with a click of a mouse, it can be a struggle to truly grasp what life was like for them. But in the Park to Park region, the land remains much as it was back then, complete with ruts in the earth left by their wagon wheels. Tour the region’s excellent museums and historic sites for a vivid glimpse into 19th-century frontier life. The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper should top any cultural itinerary in the Park to Park region. Exhibits in the museum realistically document the lives of both emigrants and Native Americans in the pioneer era and invite visitors to experience history through hands-on exhibits. Round out your experience with a visit to the nearby Fort Caspar Museum, a reconstructed 1865 military post near several historic trails that boasts permanent exhibits on prehistoric cultures, Plains Indians, ranching, emigrant trails and the history of Casper. NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAILS CENTER, ERIC LINDBERG. Nowhere are the westward journeys of pioneers more palpable than at the Oregon Trail Ruts National Historic Landmark and Register Cliff State Historic Site, just east of Douglas, near Guernsey. The ruts — which are some of the best preserved on the Oregon Trail and cut several feet deep into sandstone — were made by thousands of wagons on their way to South Pass Historic Site, a valley that enabled emigrants to cross the Rockies. Those traveling along the trail often marked their names and the dates of their journeys in places like the Register Cliff, a sandstone precipice covered with inscriptions, to signal to friends and family traveling later that they had made it to a certain point. Continue east of Guernsey to the town of Fort Laramie and Fort Laramie National Historic Site. Founded in 1834 by fur trappers and later stationed by troops, the fort was one of the most important in the West. Set at the confluence of the North Platte and Laramie rivers, the post provided travelers with fresh water, provisions and protection. Today, 22 original structures stand, some of which are restored and open for tours. WY NOW? Daily during the summer months, Fort Laramie National Historic Site comes to life as the park staff — dressed in period clothing — share fascinating stories and facts about the fort. Stop at the visitor center for more details.
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